A major breakthrough in Lagos’ water infrastructure has been achieved as the state government partners with WaterAid Nigeria and Armani Beauty to rehabilitate the Akilo Waterworks, a project expected to supply clean water to at least 100,000 residents in Ifako-Agege.
At the contract signing ceremony held at the Lagos Water Corporation (LWC) headquarters on Thursday, WaterAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Evelyn Mere, described the initiative as a transformative intervention that will significantly improve public health, household income, and social well-being in the affected communities.
“The rehabilitation of Akilo Waterworks is a long-awaited milestone that demonstrates the power of partnerships in driving sustainable development,” Mere said. “Water, sanitation, and hygiene are fundamental human rights, and this project aligns with our strategic shift to large-scale interventions that impact more people.”
Mere emphasized the devastating consequences of poor water access, noting that 90% of deaths from diarrheal diseases are linked to unsafe water and inadequate sanitation. She lauded Armani Beauty for integrating clean water access into its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda and acknowledged the support of the Lagos State Government in facilitating the project.
Lagos Water Corporation Managing Director, Muktaar Tijani, reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to ensuring the successful execution of the project within the stipulated six-month timeframe. He praised WaterAid’s relentless efforts and assured that the contractor would receive the necessary support to complete the rehabilitation efficiently.
Key stakeholders, including representatives from the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, the Lagos State Water Regulatory Agency, and the Lagos State Waste Management Office, also expressed their support for the initiative through goodwill messages.
With this strategic collaboration, Lagos State is taking a critical step toward bridging the gap in potable water supply, enhancing public health, and ensuring sustainable water access for its growing population.
